Middle-market private equity firm One Equity Partners (OEP) has finalised the acquisition of Kitwave Group plc, a prominent UK-based wholesale distributor specialising in food, beverage, and consumable goods. The move signals a strategic push into the fragmented UK wholesale sector, leveraging Kitwave's established logistics network and its history of successful business integrations.
Strategic expansion in the UK distribution sector
The acquisition positions OEP to capitalise on Kitwave’s significant presence in the British wholesale market. Kitwave’s business model is built on service reliability and extensive local reach, serving a diverse range of customers from independent retailers to large-scale foodservice operators.
Steve Lunau, Partner at One Equity Partners, noted that the company has established a strong track record of completing and integrating acquisitions. OEP intends to use this experience as a foundation for future M&A-driven growth, targeting further consolidation within the industry.
Operational scale and market reach
Founded in 1987, Kitwave has grown into a nationwide operator with a robust infrastructure that meets consistent underlying demand. The company’s operations are divided into three primary segments:
Foodservice: Supply and distribution to restaurants, bars, and leisure outlets.
Frozen and Chilled: Distribution of fresh and frozen products to retail customers.
Ambient: Delivery of packaged goods, including confectionery, soft drinks, snacks, and tobacco to convenience stores and grocery chains.
To support these operations, Kitwave maintains 37 facilities across the United Kingdom and manages a fleet of 650 delivery vehicles. The company currently fulfils more than 6,500 orders per day, highlighting its role as a critical link in the UK supply chain.
Focus on long-term value and consolidation
The partnership with OEP is expected to accelerate Kitwave's development plan. Ben Maxted, Chief Executive Officer of Kitwave, stated that OEP’s experience with distribution-led businesses aligns with the company's long-term growth objectives.
The investment will likely focus on platform development and continued service enhancement for its nationwide customer base.
Ori Birnboim, Partner at One Equity Partners, emphasised that service reliability and local reach are the primary drivers for success in the wholesale sector. By leveraging Kitwave’s diversified supplier base and experienced management team, OEP aims to create long-term value as it enters the next phase of industrial scaling.
.png)
